Team USA reflects on win against China

How many of you got up early this morning to watch Deron Williams, Carlos Boozer and Team USA battle Yao Ming and the host Chinese in the Olympic basketball opener? There was tons of energy, enthusiasm and euphoria at the basketball venue. The game was something the players will ever forget.

"We're here with our teammates to play for our people, you know. It's such a big honor on us, big pressure, but even bigger honor," Yao Ming said.

Beijing basketball venue manger Ma Jiang said there is a lot of pride for China in hosting these Games. "Because, you know, every time, not just China, every team against the U.S., there's something they want to win," he said.

Kobe Bryant said, "I've never felt anything like this before, and it's the first time with the national anthem that I've ever teared up a little bit. You look in the crowd and you see fans waving the flag, you see them pounding their chests, chanting, ‘USA!' I mean, that's very special."

The game started well for china. Yao's three-point shot was the first three points of the game. But from then on, the U.S. basically went wild. Fifteen spectacular dunks later, it was a blowout.

"It's something I feel honored to be part of. I think they had fun out there," Carols Boozer said.

Deron Williams said, "I had a blast. It was a great experience, great atmosphere to be part of."

Tomorrow, Team USA should roll again against Angola.

E-mail: tkirkland@ksl.com

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